The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said at least 11 Gambians including six children have died in the Bronx apartment fire in New York adding others are still missing but efforts are underway to locate them.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad is deeply saddened to inform the general public that 11 Gambians, including six children, have died in the fire that broke in Bronx, New York on Sunday 8, January 2022.

“The apartment building ravaged by the fire is said to have been predominantly occupied by Gambian immigrants. Latest information from our Permanent Representative in New York, and Ambassador in Washington indicate that others are still missing but efforts are underway to locate them,” the ministry said in a statement.

“Both the Permanent Mission and the Embassy in Washington are working with the authorities in the City of New York with a view to locating survivors and also assisting the injured. 

“They have also been in touch with the families concerned. Some have already been found and reunited with their families,” the statement added.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Gambia Government, sends its heartfelt condolences to the grieving families for this tragic loss.

“The Ministry prays for God’s infinite mercy and forgiveness on the departed souls and said the public will be regularly updated as we go through these trying times.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba